We are all aware of the effects of car and road traffic accidents. In Ireland the RSA have been conducting campaigns for many years now to help reduce the number of car accidents and deaths as a result of road traffic accidents on our roads.

Some progress has been made in recent years in reducing the level of road traffic accidents but much work remains to be done. Here are some frightening statistics collected on the subject of road traffic accidents which give us all food for thought!

1.24 million people were killed as a result of road traffic accidents around the world in 2010

Each day, an estimated 3,400 people are killed globally in road traffic crashes involving cars, buses, motorcycles, bicycles, trucks, or pedestrians. Half of those people killed in crashes, globally, are pedestrians, motorcyclists, and cyclists.

Road traffic injuries are estimated to be the eighth leading cause of death globally and the leading cause of death for young people aged 15–29.

Current trends show that by 2030, road traffic injuries will become the fifth leading cause of death globally!!

Road traffic injuries place a huge economic burden on low- and middle-income countries and are estimated to cost more than 100 billion U.S. dollars per year.

Steps for Safety At Home and Abroad

Motor vehicle and pedestrian crashes are a public health concern on a national and international level.

These personal injuries and deaths are preventable.

Whether you are a driver, passenger, cyclist, or pedestrian, take the following steps to stay safe on the road: